Introduction to Taupo, New Zealand
If you’re traveling in New Zealand and don’t have much time, Taupo is a great spot to drop by—just about a 4-hour drive from Auckland. Alternatively, you can also catch a bus from Auckland to Taupo. Aside from the stunning scenery, Taupo offers a wide range of outdoor activities like skydiving, bungee jumping, hiking, and golfing. In this article, I’ll introduce two must-visit attractions when you’re in Taupo.
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Summer (Dec – Feb): 20–30°C, dry and sunny.
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Winter (Jun – Aug): 0–10°C, light snow possible in higher elevations.
When Is the Best Time to Visit New Zealand?
New Zealand has a temperate maritime climate, making the weather generally mild and pleasant throughout the year. The country experiences four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. However, since New Zealand is located in the Southern Hemisphere, its seasons are the opposite of those in the Northern Hemisphere.
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Spring: September to November
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Summer: December to February
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Autumn: March to May
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Winter: June to August
Thanks to its gentle climate, New Zealand is a great place to visit any time of the year. However, the best times to travel are during spring and autumn, when temperatures hover around 20°C. During the day, it’s warm and sunny, while nights are cool and refreshing—perfect for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. These seasons also see fewer crowds at major attractions and more affordable travel costs compared to the peak summer holiday period for locals.
Transportation in New Zealand
Getting around New Zealand is easy and convenient thanks to its well-developed and modern infrastructure.
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Self-driving: If you hold an international driver’s license and are familiar with local traffic rules, renting a car is a great way to freely explore tourist destinations. Be mindful not to consume alcohol if you’re driving, as strict DUI laws are enforced. Rental prices range from NZD 35 to 150 per day. Reputable rental companies include Jucy, Travellers Autobarn, and Britz.
Transportation in New Zealand -
Bus: For budget travelers, public buses are a cost-effective option. The InterCity bus network covers both cities and regional routes. In-city fares are around NZD 1, while intercity routes range as follows:
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Christchurch – Queenstown: NZD 55–75
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Auckland – Wellington: NZD 30–40
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Franz Josef – Wanaka: NZD 45–65
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Train: Currently, there are three scenic train routes: Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific, and TranzAlpine. These modern trains offer commentary, information leaflets, and large windows for scenic viewing. Fares range from NZD 159 to 199 per trip.
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Bicycles: If you enjoy physical activity, cycling is a great way to explore the scenery. However, bicycle rental is relatively pricey—about NZD 60 per day.
Booking Budget Accommodation in New Zealand
To secure the best rates and avoid sold-out situations during peak travel seasons, book your accommodation several weeks in advance. From hostels and homestays to hotels, options are widely available on major booking platforms such as Agoda, Booking.com, and Traveloka. Whether you’re on a tight budget or seeking a luxury stay, there’s something for everyone.
Here are some reasonably priced hotels you might consider:
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Auckland City Hotel – NZD 68/night (157 Hobson, Auckland)
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Auckland Airport Kiwi Motel – NZD 75/night (144 McKenzie Rd, Auckland Airport)
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Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park – NZD 60/night (463 Old Taupo Rd, Springfield)
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The Thorndon Hotel Wellington – NZD 55/night (24 Hawkestone St, Wellington)
In addition to your visa, cash, and hotel reservations, don’t forget to arrange for an eSIM. With Visana eSIM, you can stay connected throughout your journey without the hassle of searching for a local mobile provider.
Lake Taupo
You can take a sailing trip on the vast Lake Taupō, located in the Rotorua region, to admire the giant Māori Rock Carvings—an impressive traditional artwork created by the Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand.
Lake Taupo is the largest lake in New Zealand, spanning 600 square kilometers with a depth of nearly 200 meters. It may sound like a place best admired from afar, but during summer, people actually swim in it. The water is very clean and clear, and the area near the shore resembles a beach—perfect for a safe and relaxing swim.
When I visited, I witnessed something quite amusing—people were playing golf near the lake, and whenever the ball landed in the water, they hired local students to swim out and retrieve it!
Huka Falls
Huka Falls is just a 5-minute drive from Lake Taupo. The waterfall is a powerful and beautiful sight, known for its vibrant blue water. It originates from the Waikato River and was narrowed due to a volcanic eruption several hundred years ago, making the water flow faster and more forcefully.
There’s no entrance fee to visit Huka Falls. You can also bring a bike or take a scenic walk to higher viewpoints to fully appreciate the stunning natural beauty of the area.
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Reference article links:
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- Top 5 Affordable and Attentive Hotels in Da Lat Worth Booking
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